The United States Embassy in Accra has announced the immediate release of more than 2,000 non-immigrant visa appointment slots available over the next two weeks, creating a rare opportunity for Ghanaians seeking to travel for business, tourism, or to attend the World Cup.
In a statement issued on its official channels, the embassy confirmed that the slots are for B1/B2 visas, which cover short-term visits for business and leisure purposes.
“We have more than 2,000 visa appointment slots available in the next two weeks for B1/B2 travelers — whether you’re planning a business trip, visiting family, general tourism, or wanting to watch the World Cup!” the U.S. Embassy Ghana posted on X.
The embassy particularly encouraged applicants who already have visa appointments scheduled for later in the year to consider rescheduling to an earlier date. “If you already have a U.S. visa appointment for later in the year, consider moving it up now,” the statement read, directing applicants to its official visa information page for booking details.
Policy Restrictions Remain in Effect
The expansion of non-immigrant visa services comes against a backdrop of significant changes to U.S. immigration policy affecting Ghanaians.
According to a notice published under U.S. Visa Services, the Department of State, effective January 21, 2026, has paused all immigrant visa issuances to nationals of countries, including Ghana, “whose immigrants have a high rate of collecting public assistance at the expense of the U.S. taxpayer.”
While the notice clarified that immigrant visa applicants from affected countries may still submit applications and attend interviews, visa issuance has been halted pending further review. The Department of State has also announced an immediate pause on all diversity immigrant visa issuances.
Additional Restrictions Under Presidential Proclamation
Further restrictions are in effect under Presidential Proclamation 10998 on Restricting and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals, which took effect at the start of the year. The proclamation suspends or limits entry and visa issuance to nationals of 39 countries, as well as individuals applying with travel documents issued or endorsed by the Palestinian Authority.
Affected applicants may still submit applications and attend interviews but may ultimately be deemed ineligible for visa issuance or admission.
New Vetting Procedures
The embassy has also reminded applicants of stringent new vetting procedures. Applicants for H-1B visas and their H-4 dependents, as well as those seeking F, M, or J non-immigrant visas, must adjust the privacy settings on all their social media accounts to “public.”
This measure, the embassy stated, is to facilitate the vetting necessary to establish an applicant’s identity and admissibility to the United States under U.S. law.
The embassy has introduced a new appointment system designed to guide applicants through the visa process and provide assistance where required. Prospective travelers are urged to act swiftly to secure the newly released slots.
